Web Censorware

Software filters don't work. But a growing number of websites offer family-friendly surfing

How do you "protect" kids from objectionable content online? That's the issue that refuses to die--especially in Congress, where yet more wrongheaded legislation that would force libraries and schools to put costly (and ineffectual) software "filters" on Internet-connected computers is afoot.

I've got three young children, and I would no sooner install a software filter on my computer than I would lock up the books in my library. It's not just that I'm rabidly pro-First Amendment; software filters simply don't work. It's a little like trying to collect raindrops in your hat: you'll catch some, but you'll miss most of them....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!